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LONDON, OH, April 2, 2018— Horse people of all levels of expertise from 4-H riders, Pony Clubbers, and others just beginning their riding careers to accomplished equestrians, trainers, and equine professionals will be able to immerse themselves in “all things equine” at the 2018 Equine Affaire scheduled to take place April 12th through the 15th at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. This year’s event will be the 25th show in Ohio and the 57th Equine Affaire produced nationwide by Equine Affaire, Inc., a small company based in London, Ohio. ​When work initially began on the first Equine Affaire back in 1993, the show was nothing more than one person’s “good idea.” That idea for an event that would bring all facets of the horse industry together in an education-oriented, noncompetitive environment was soon enthusiastically embraced by horse people and horse businesses alike, and Equine Affaire quickly evolved into a multi-faceted, must-attend show serving the horse community.

“It’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since we produced our first event at the Hara Arena Complex in Dayton, Ohio” explained Eugenia Snyder, President and founder of Equine Affaire, Inc. “I created this event with the hope of bringing horse people affiliated with all different breeds and disciplines together so that we could share our passion for horses and learn from one another. The success of Equine Affaire over the years is a real tribute to the hard work and dedication of a lot of horse people and horse-related businesses that have participated in and supported the event since its inception. We’ve accomplished a lot together and have created an institution that benefits horses, horse people, and the horse industry overall.”

Today Equine Affaire enjoys a solid reputation and place in the horse industry thanks to the participation and support over the past 25 years of countless clinicians, presenters, performers, farm owners, associations, organizations, retailers, manufacturers, sponsors, and horse people from all walks of equestrian life. The exact impact of Equine Affaire is difficult to measure, but the 56 events that have been produced since the first show in March of 1994 have clearly touched the lives of many hundreds of thousands of horse people and several thousand horse businesses and organizations throughout the nation. Along the way they have also served an even larger and perhaps more important goal of improving our understanding and appreciation of horses and improving their lives through the education of their owners and handlers. Equine Affaire is aptly named—as it continues to be a celebration of our love of horses.

Equine Affaire’s “Silver Anniversary” event will offer what Equine Affaire has become famous for: an educational program that is second-to-none, the largest horse-related trade show in this hemisphere, top equine entertainment and competition, and endless opportunities to experience, buy, and sell horses of all types. Whether you are just becoming involved with horses or you’re a seasoned veteran of the horse world, your destination of choice this spring will be Equine Affaire—North America’s premiere equine exposition and equestrian gathering.

At a time when so much of what we do and experience is through online avenues, Equine Affaire offers the grand alternative to see, feel, touch, compare, try on, experience and even smell the horse world in person . . . to share one’s love of horses with others who feel the same. Equine Affaire is about first-hand opportunities to witness great horses, learn from top equestrians, shop for all things equine, research, connect, hang out with fellow horse people and immerse one’s self in the world of horses.

At the heart of Equine Affaire is an educational program designed to help horsemen of all riding and driving persuasions reach their equestrian goals at home, on the trail, or in a competitive arena. Hundreds of clinics, seminars and demos by many of the foremost trainers, coaches, competitors, judges, TV personalities, and industry professionals will be presented in seven venues. Clinic topics will cover the gamut from the English disciplines of dressage, jumping, eventing, driving, English pleasure and hunter under saddle through the western sports of reining, western horsemanship, barrel racing, contesting, and trail.

New riders and horse owners of all ages may also acquire basic horse and horsemanship expertise through demos, video presentations, interactive exhibits, and special activities at Equine Affaire’s Equine Fundamentals Forum sponsored by Nutramax. And, if you’ve never ridden a horse or haven’t ridden in a long time, you’ll have an opportunity to connect or reconnect with horses this spring. Equine Affaire is partnering with the American Horse Council’s Time to Rideprogram to provide opportunities for new and aspiring horse lovers to have their first encounter with a horse—to learn about the basics of horses, horse care, horsemanship, and to actually ride a horse for the first time.

Equine Affaire is expanding its educational offerings this year with the introduction of the Your Farm Forum, sponsored by Equine Equipment and located in the Bricker Annex. This new specialty area will include a range of farm and stable-related exhibitors as well as a seminar stage featuring sessions focusing on the horse’s home and environment and covering a wide range of topics for owners of horse farms of all sizes. Discover ways you can improve your equine operation and horse’s world and learn about other farm activities and animals.Students hoping to pursue equine-related studies and careers will be able to research college programs and career options by participating in a new Career/College Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, April 14. The hunt will be an engaging way to meet a variety of industry professionals and college representatives.

Of course the true focus of Equine Affaire is obviously horses, and you’ll find plenty of ways to discover and appreciate the amazing diversity of the horse world in the Breed Pavilion, Horse & Farm Exhibits, and breed demos throughout the weekend. Get up close and personal with equines from miniatures to drafts, gaited to easy gaited breeds, and stock horses to sport horses. Representatives of dozens of horse, pony, color, and breed associations and registries will be on hand to answer your questions and share their exceptional horses with you.

Equine Affaire’s popular test of horsemanship, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition, will once again be an entertaining as well as educational part of the event. Up to 25 pre-selected horse and rider teams will race through a challenging obstacle course in the coliseum on Friday, April 13, in pursuit of $5500 and the coveted title of Versatile Horse & Rider Competition Champion. The VHRC is open to adult riders of all disciplines and horses of all breeds and has evolved over the years into one of the most popular features of Equine Affaire.

A second competition has been added to the schedule for the Silver Anniversary Equine Affaire. An Interscholastic Equestrian Association Western Horse Show will take place on Sunday from 9:00am-2:30pm in Cooper Arena and feature youth competitors representing schools from throughout the region. The show will not only highlight the abilities of youth competitors, but will also provide an opportunity for high school students to learn about the IEA and how they can become involved in showing horses.Outstanding equine and equestrian acts from throughout the United States are slated to perform at Equine Affaire’s popular musical celebration of the horse - the Fantasia - to create an evening of fabulous and affordable entertainment. The 2018 Fantasia will take place at 7:30pm on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in the coliseum and is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Absorbine®. As the entertainment cornerstone of Equine Affaire, the Fantasia showcases the beauty, diversity, talent, and spirit of horses of a great variety of breeds and disciplines and provides the perfect ending to a busy day of activities at Equine Affaire. With just the right mix of comedy, drama, action, stunning horses, phenomenal horsemanship, and diverse music, the Fantasia has been one of the highlights of Equine Affaire in Columbus since this special event was first introduced nearly 20 years ago. Advance tickets for this must-see event are on sale through April 10. Tickets not sold in advance will be available at the Information Booth in the Bricker Building beginning at 9:00am on Thursday, April 12.

At Equine Affaire’s legendary trade show you’ll be able to see, touch, try on and compare everything you and your horse need….and some things you might not be able to resist. With several large “stores” to explore, hundreds of exhibit booths, and acres of trade show to cover, you’ll want to review the vendor list online in advance before shopping in person at the show. You can also plan to find bargains on quality horse-related items including tack, training equipment and riding apparel for sale on consignment at The Marketplace located next to the Breed Pavilion in the Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center.

Presenting a program as extensive as the one at Equine Affaire is very costly, and we are truly grateful to the many companies and organizations that underwrite production expenses through their generous sponsorships. We extend our most heartfelt thanks to Absorbine®, Rod’s, Wahl, Horse Network, U S Equestrian, Farnam, Equine Savings, Nutramax and the dozens of other outstanding companies and organizations that endorse the mission of Equine Affaire and keep ticket prices affordable for all horse people through their sponsorship support.

Visit equineaffaire.com, click on the Ohio event, and follow the links to detailed information on everything that Equine Affaire has to offer—and everything you need to know to attend and/or participate in the event. Or call our helpful staff of dedicated horse people at (740) 845-0085 from 9:00-5:00 ET for personal assistance. Get together with your family and horse-loving friends to make a weekend of Equine Affaire and get your springtime dose of all things equine this April in Columbus.THE IMPORTANCE OF THE HORSE INDUSTRY IN AMERICA AND THE MIDWESTThough the horse industry is one of the largest sport industries in the nation, it is one of the least-recognized within the mass media. A survey conducted by Deloitte Consulting, LLC and published by the American Horse Council (AHC) indicates that the horse industry contributes $39 billion annually in direct economic impact to the U.S. economy and supports 1.4 million full-time equivalent jobs. When indirect and induced spending is included, the horse industry’s impact on the U.S. Gross Domestic Product reaches $102 billion. The AHC survey found that there are roughly 9.2 million horses in the United States and 2 million horse owners. The AHC study concluded that, “the Ohio horse industry produces goods and services valued at $1.4 billion… [and] 181,700 Ohioans are involved as horse owners, service providers, employees, and volunteers. Even more participate as spectators. The Ohio horse industry directly provides 12,700 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs. Spending by suppliers and employees (in Ohio and other states) generates additional jobs in Ohio for a total employment impact of 42,700. There are 307,000 horses in Ohio, more than 70 percent of which are involved in showing and recreation. The economic impact of the annual production of Equine Affaire in Columbus since 1996 is incalculable. The event has attracted hundreds of thousands of participants to the region and generated a vast amount of revenue for hotels, restaurants, and support services in addition to sales taxes generated through sales at Equine Affaire’s trade shows.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Beth VolpeEquine Affaire, Inc.Phone: (740) 845-0085 ext. 103Fax: (740) 845-2879bvolpe@equineaffaire.com / www.equineaffaire.com

Omaha, Nebraska - March 29, 2018 - The Omaha Equestrian Foundation, in partnership with USDF Region 4, is pleased to announce Casey Blum as the recipient of the 2018 Felice Rose Scholarship. Blum will attend the 2018 International Omaha, April 12-15, to train with Pan American Games Silver medalist Karen Pavicic, who led a Canadian sweep of the top two places in the FEI Dressage CDI4* Grand Prix at the 2016 InternationalOmaha. The Felice Rose Scholarship, sponsored by the Omaha Equestrian Foundation, is a grant awarded to a USDF participating member in good standing and current resident of Region 4. Blum is a USDF Bronze and Silver medalist from Ladd, IL where she trains her own 2010 Dutch Warmblood, Eschaton. Blum is a member of the Nebraska Dressage Association and the Illinois Dressage and Combined Training Association, with a long history as a successful competitor and dedicated volunteer within Region 4. Most recently, Blum and Eschaton were named the 2017 U.S. Dressage Finals Second Level Adult Amateur Champions. "I am so thrilled to attend the International Omaha because of the 2018 Felice Rose Scholarship. This opportunity will help me to reach my goals by putting me in real life scenarios of competing at a CDI," said Blum. "It will give me the chance to shadow a high-level dressage competitor and learn how they worked to get to this level, so I can hopefully reach this level of competition someday with my horse. I am very thankful for the Felice Rose Scholarship and Region 4 for allowing me to participate in this type of an event."This year's International Omaha will feature a Dressage Showcase sponsored by the Dressage Foundation, with Olympic dressage team Gold Medalist, Hubertus Schmidt of Germany, to conduct a clinic in the main arena. The highly acclaimed rider, trainer and coach has been described as one of the most prolific trainers in the world, training dozens of horses to Grand Prix level.Legendary rider, trainer, and clinician, George Morris, will also give a modified clinic as part of the Jumping Showcase in the main arena, instructing some of the Midwest's best young equitation riders. One of the participants will receive the $1,000 KindredBio Horsemanship Award. Morris will also conduct demonstrations in the Demonstration Arena that will be free to the public.The four-day event will provide expanded educational opportunities for emerging athletes and young people as well as family fun for all ages. There will be exhibits and demonstrations, along with shopping at a variety of unique vendors from across the United States, a range of dining choices, and live entertainment featuring some of Omaha's finest.For further information about International Omaha please visi twww.InternationalOmaha.com. To reserve tickets or seats, please call 402-930-3079 or email ContactOEF@OmahaEquestrian.com.The OEF, a certified 501(c)(3) not-for-profit foundation, has been committed to building a world-class equestrian experience in Omaha over the past several years. It created and developed The International Omaha, an internationally sanctioned equestrian show jumping and dressage experience now going into its sixth year. The successful growth of that event helped secure the OEF's bid to host the 2017 FEI World Cup™ Finals.

Lexington, KY - March 26, 2018 - The Show Jumping Hall of Fame has announced that Norman Dello Joio, Hunter Harrison, Authentic and Sympatico have been elected to the Show Jumping Hall of Fame. The new inductees will be honored at the Show Jumping Hall of Fame's annual induction ceremony at the Devon Horse Show on Thursday, May 31, before the start of the Sapphire Grand Prix of Devon which is scheduled to begin at 8:00 p.m. in the Dixon Oval Arena.Induction into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame is an honor bestowed annually upon select individuals whose contributions to the sport have set them apart and whose influence has had a significant impact on the sport of show jumping and the equestrian community. It is because of their talents, efforts, accomplishments and what they have brought to the sport that the Election Committee, comprising some of the nation's top riders, trainers and officials, voted them as the Hall of Fame's newest inductees.Norman Dello Joio achieved great success at home and abroad over his three-decade riding career. Winner of virtually every major Grand Prix in the U.S., he is best known for two international titles - the 1983 FEI World Cup Final in Vienna, Austria, which he won aboard the French stallion I Love You; and the Olympic individual Bronze Medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games which he won riding Irish.Nicknamed "Stormin' Norman" for his aggressive riding style, Dello Joio started winning on the U.S. Grand Prix circuit in the 1970s. His record included such wins as the Grand Prix of Devon (two years in succession), the President's Cup, USGPL Invitational, and the American Invitational which he first won on Allegro in 1978. (He added a second Invitational win in 2004 on Glasgow.) He established an American Grandprix Association (AGA) record when he rode Johnny's Pocket to five wins in 1981.In 2000, Dello Joio rode Glasgow to three victories in his first four starts at the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington and then placed second in the International Grand Prix at the Spruce Meadows Masters before winning the President's Cup for a second time.Dello Joio's record in international competition is equally impressive. In 1979, he finished third in the first FEI World Cup Final ever held and rode Allegro as part of the United States' Gold Medal team at the Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico. In 1980, he was named to the U.S. Olympic Team, although the U.S. boycott denied him the chance to compete. When he finished second in the 1984 World Cup Final, it marked his third top-three finish in the Final's first six years.Riding into his third decade, Dello Joio and Glasgow won the King George V Gold Cup at Hickstead, England in 2001, the same year he placed third in the Kerrygold Classic at CSIO Dublin in Ireland. The following year he won the World Cup Grand Prix at Spruce Meadows and Oslo, Norway. Dello Joio has also served as chef d'equipe for U.S. Nations' Cup teams and for the Mexican teams at the 2008 Olympics and 2010 World Equestrian Games.Dello Joio and his wife, Jeannie, have a daughter, Daniela, and a son, Nicholas, who has followed in his father's footsteps as a successful Grand Prix rider.Hunter Harrison was a prominent and influential figure in the world of international showjumping. He was extraordinarily dedicated to the sport as a sponsor, owner, business advisor and avid supporter for many years. Harrison supported some of the sport's top riders and his Double H Farm has owned and produced some of the best horses in the sport.One of the most highly regarded executives in railway history, Harrison brought support of companies he led to the sport as some of show jumping's most important sponsors. Under his leadership, railway giants CN and CP have provided support to major events like the Spruce Meadows Masters, National Horse Show, World Cup Finals, North American Junior and Young Riders Championships, Winter Equestrian Festival and Palm Beach Masters. Harrison also provided personal support and gave of his time to help lead many events including the National Horse Show (which he served as Chairman of the Board), Spruce Meadows Masters, American Gold Cup, Global Champions Tour and Winter Equestrian Festival.Harrison also played a major role as a horse owner and supporter of top riders. In addition to his daughter Cayce, who won the individual Gold medal at the North American Junior and Young Riders Championships in 2002, he supported McLain Ward, who won Olympic gold and silver medals and the 2017 FEI World Cup™ Finals with HH horses; international stars Rodrigo Pessoa of Brazil and Daniel Duesser of Germany; and Cayce's husband, Quentin Judge, who has also achieved international success for the U.S.Some of Double H's top horses include the chestnut mare Sapphire who won Olympic team Gold medals with McLain Ward in the saddle at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Hong Kong Olympics Games, and HH Azur, with whom Ward won team Silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics as well as topping the 2017 FEI World Cup™ Final in Omaha. Other top Double H horses shown successfully by Ward include HH Carlos Z, HH Callas, HH Ashley and HH Gigi's Girl.HH horses also carried Pessoa to success including HH Rebozo, which he rode in the 2012 Olympics and 2010 World Equestrian Games, and HH Rufus, which he rode in the 2008 Olympics and 2007 Pan American Games where he won team Gold and individual Silver medals. Judge's HH horses have included HH Dark de la Hart, who helped the US win the Nations Cup in Bratislava, Slovakia in 2013, HH Copin van de Broy, HH Conrad, HH Early, HH Quatour, HH Venice Beach, and HH Whiskey Royale.Authentic, a bay Dutch Warmblood gelding, teamed with Beezie Madden for one of the most successful careers in U.S. show jumping history. Their long list of accomplishments includes three Olympic medals - team Gold at both the 2004 Games in Athens and 2008 Games in Hong Kong where they also claimed the individual Bronze - plus double Silver medals at the 2006 FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Aachen.Authentic was purchased by John and Beezie Madden together with Elizabeth Busch Burke as a six-year-old in 2000 (it was because of the connection with Budweiser that he got his nickname "Bud"). To help keep him as Beezie's ride for Athens, shares were later sold to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Patton, Mr. and Mrs. Steffen Wolff, Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Jacobs, and Chandi Duke Heffner. After Athens, Abigail Wexner purchased him, ensuring that one of the world's top combinations would stay together.His many Grand Prix wins with Madden included the Mercedes German Masters and Audi Grand Prix of Maastricht (2003), Grand Prix of the United States (2004), New Albany Classic (2005), Budweiser American Invitational (2005 and 2007), Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2006), Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen (2007) and CN Worldwide Grand Prix in Wellington (2008).Other highlights included second place in the $200,000 Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Spruce Meadows (2009), second place at the Budweiser American Invitational (2004) and third place in the Hachenburg Grand Prix in Germany (2004). In 2004, Authentic and Madden helped the U.S. to second place finishes in the Nations Cups at Aachen, Germany, and Spruce Meadows, Canada and in 2005, they helped the U.S. win the Nations Cup at Aachen and its first-ever Super League Nations Cup competition. Authentic was named the USEF Show Jumping Horse of the Year in 2005 and again in 2006 when he was also the overall USEF Horse of the Year and Madden was honored as the USEF Equestrian of the Year.Above all, it was Authentic's stellar performances in show jumping's most important events that etched his name indelibly in the sport's record books. At the 2006 World Equestrian Games, Authentic was perfect, winning the opening speed class, turning in the U.S.'s only double clear in the Nations Cup and then going clean with all four riders in the individual final. Authentic then carried Madden to their second team Gold together at the 2008 Olympics and won an exciting seven-horse jump-off for the individual Bronze medal.Authentic was formally retired from competition in 2009 in a ceremony at the New Albany Classic and he is now happily retired at the Maddens' farm in Cazenovia, NY.Sympatico, a veteran of the 1976 Olympics and 1978 World Championships, is best known for his show record in the Puissance. Sired by The Hammer out of a Black Gang mare, Sympatico was in training as a timber horse when purchased as a 3-year-old by the Edelmans' Alligator Farms in Connecticut. Sally Edelman showed the 17.1h, bay, Thoroughbred gelding sparingly as an equitation horse before starting the 6-year-old on the A circuit as a junior jumper in 1971 while riding out of Carl Knee's Rock Bottom Farm.Sympatico moved up to the open division with Anthony D'Ambrosio in 1972 and the duo claimed a second-place finish in the Cleveland Grand Prix, a fourth in the Grand Prix of Los Angeles, a win in the Orange Coast Grand Prix in California, and four wins at the National Horse Show in Madison Square Garden. His record setting career as a Puissance horse began in 1973 when he won the Puissance at the National Horse Show with a height of 7'4". The next year he won the Puissance at the Washington International Horse Show at 7'1" and the Grand Prix at Hamilton (Ontario), while placing second in the American Show Jumping Championships and Grand Prix of Toronto and third in the American Gold Cup.Wins the following year at Washington and New York, as well as in the Grand Prix at Hornby (Ontario), led to his sale to Samson Farms of Canada and new success as a team horse for Canada. In 1976, Canadian Jim Day rode him to Grand Prix wins at Aurora (Ontario) and Toronto, and he won three classes at the Royal Winter Fair including the Puissance, in which he cleared 7'2". His 1976 season was highlighted by his selection to the Canadian team for the Montreal Olympics where he led the team to a fifth-place finish.At the end of 1977, he was purchased by Canadian rider Terry Leibel who teamed with him to win the Grand Prix of Florida in their first start together and also the Grand Prix of Rotterdam during 1978, a year that saw them help Canada to a fourth place finish in the World Championships at Aachen.Since 1987, the Show Jumping Hall of Fame has inducted William C. Steinkraus, Bertalan de Némethy, Idle Dice (1987); Patrick Butler, August A. Busch, Jr. (1988); David Kelley, Jimmy Williams, Ben O'Meara, Frances Rowe (1989); Arthur McCashin, Kathy Kusner, Brigadier General Harry D. Chamberlin, San Lucas (1990); Adolph Mogavero, Whitney Stone, Morton "Cappy" Smith, Pat Dixon (1991); Eleonora "Eleo" Sears, Mary Mairs Chapot, Barbara Worth Oakford, Snowman (1992); Dr. Robert C. Rost, Joe Green (1993); Frank Chapot, Gordon Wright (1994); Mickey Walsh, Trail Guide (1995); Pamela Carruthers, Jet Run, Richard "Dick" Donnelly and Heatherbloom (1996); Edward "Ned" King, Bobby Egan and Sun Beau (1997); Fred "Freddy" Wettach, Jr., Melanie Smith Taylor, Johnny Bell (1998); Rodney Jenkins, Sinjon, Franklin F. "Fuddy" Wing, Jr. and Democrat(1999); George Morris, Carol Durand, Touch of Class (2000); Eugene R. Mische, Lt. Colonel John W. Russell, Bobby Burke, Untouchable (2001); Harry R. Gill, Clarence L. "Honey" Craven, Calypso, Gem Twist (2002); J. Russell Stewart, Sr., Main Spring (2003); Snowbound (2004); Michael Matz, For The Moment (2005); Conrad Homfeld (2006); Joe Fargis, Karen Golding, Marcia "Mousie" Williams (2007); Dr. John Steele, Abdullah, Miss Budweiser, Riviera Wonder (2008); Neal Shapiro, Balbuco (2009); John D. Ammerman, Leonard A. King, Jr., Good Twist (2010); Jane Forbes Clark, Gabor Nicholas Foltenyi, Hap Hansen and Larry Langer (2011); Starman, Nautical, D. Gerald Baker, Charles "Sonny" Brooks (2012); Daniel Marks, VMD, Seamus Brady, Steve Stephens (2013); F. Eugene Fitz Dixon, Jr., Major General Guy Henry, I Love You (2014); Elizabeth Busch Burke, Katie Monahan Prudent, Susan Hutchison (2015); and Anne Kursinski, Fran Steinwedell, Walter Devereux and The Natural (2016).The Show Jumping Hall of Fame is located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Plaques honoring those who have been honored with induction into the Hall of Fame can be seen at the Horse Park's Rolex Stadium. Mementos and artifacts from the sport's history are on display as part of the Show Jumping Hall of Fame collection at the United States Hunter Jumper Association's Wheeler Museum at the Horse Park. Further information about the Show Jumping Hall of Fame, including the plaques of all previous inductees, is available on line at www.ShowJumpingHallofFame.netFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, (508) 698-6810, marty@classic-communications.com

Wellington, Florida - March 22, 2018 - The feature event of the day at the Palm Beach Open, part of the Palm Beach Masters Series held at Deeridge Farm in Wellington, FL, the $10,000 1.40M Jumper class, went to Abigail McArdle and Fanta Light B, owned by Plain Bay Sales.Course Designer Kevin Giblin saw 28 entries attempt his course. The 11 obstacles in the first round, along with the length of the course that wound around the huge Grand Prix field, tested the stamina of both horse and rider. Only seven were successful in posting clear rounds, and of those only four were able to turn in double clear rounds. None, however, could come close to besting McArdle and Fanta Light B.McArdle and the little 8-year-old bay mare held off all challengers to their blazing time of 39.370 seconds. Canadian Olympic veteran Mario Deslauriers came the closest with his wife Lisa's Scout De La Cense, going double clear in 40.064 seconds.

"It was a great day for the Plain Bay crew," said McArdle. "Today I went out there and gave it a shot and she was so good. She is such a special horse. She has got great style and she is so careful and smart. She just wants to win. I know she is only eight, but she handles everything so well. She is going to be a top horse. She's a special horse and this is a special venue. Good day!"

Thirteen was a lucky number for Adam Prudent aboard Plain Bay Sales' Vasco, as that was their place in the order for the $3,000 1.30M Jumper Time First Jump-Off class. The class had 70 starters, but none was able to knock Prudent and his long-time partner from the top spot. Prudent and Vasco finished their course with no faults in 38.356 seconds to win."It was such a pleasure coming here and showing on the grass," Prudent said following his win. "It is always amazing showing on grass, and the horse loves it. I had a great time."The top ribbon in the $3,500 1.35M Jumper Time First Jump-Off class went to KEC City Limits with Irishman Willie Tynan in the irons. KEC City Limits, owned by Red Barn Farm LLC, turned in double clear rounds in a time of 31.819 seconds to take the hotly contested class.The Classic Champions $3,000 7-Year-Old Jumper class was won in impressive style by G-Force and Schuyler Riley. G-Force, owned by Riley's Wolfstone Stables, traversed the power-and-speed course to finish a full two seconds faster than the nearest competitor, two-time Olympian Daniel Bluman aboard Steven Bluman's Bibou Du Perron."I just love this venue," said Riley. "I brought my young horses here for the experience. The footing here is just amazing, and the grass field with this kind of environment, there is just no better way to bring up a young horse. These are different jumps and a big impressive tent, and at the top events in our sport this is what you get. So for a young horse coming along to be able to show here you get all that along with nice course designing."Oliver McCarthy and Marconedereve won the Classic Champions 6-Year-Old Power-and-Speed competition with the only fault-free effort over both phases of the class.Created in 2015 by Cynthia Hampton, Classic Champions Tour is specifically for 5, 6, and 7-year-old jumpers and is based on European principles which modernize the show experience for young horses in North America. Created by experienced, specifically-trained course designers, the courses are made to fit horses' age with adapted heights, types of fences, lines, and turns, all over top-notch footing, which is a trademark of Deeridge Farms. The series gives young horses the opportunity to compete at different shows to develop their experience and it helps them become the future stars they can be."My goal is to offer adapted classes and also to educate riders, trainers, breeders, course designers, judges and officials," said Hampton. "We need a viable structure capable of identifying, selecting and educating future high-level horses. I believe that we can breed and develop future athletes capable of distinguishing our region both at home and on the international stage.""We think it's extremely valuable for young jumpers to get the best education and show experience possible right from the start, which is why we are delighted to include the Classic Champions classes at our shows," said Lou Jacobs, event co-founder along with siblings Charlie Jacobs and Katie Robinson. "It's always exciting to watch as young horses start their careers and develop through the levels."The Classic Champions young horse classes are non-USEF rated, held in Deeridge Farms' beautiful grass Grand Prix Ring, and offer $20,000 in prize money. In addition to the general results, the judges of Classic Champions Tour classes will reward one horse per generation with the "Classic Champions Award of Distinction." The goal being to highlight jumping style, quality of canter and rideability.Competition in the Deeridge Jumper Ring that boasts all-weather footing begins at 8:00 a.m. each day, while action in the immaculate grass Horse Network Grand Prix Ring starts at 9:00 a.m. each day, except on Sunday, March 25 when it begins at 8:00 a.m. For more information visit:https://palmbeachmasters.com/event/palm-beach-open/.SCHEDULE - click here for complete class scheduleStay In TouchFor all of the latest news, alerts, and updates about the Palm Beach Masters Series, click here to join our mailing list!About the Palm Beach Masters Series and Deeridge FarmsThe 2018 Palm Beach Masters Series kicked off with the third annual CP Palm Beach Masters CSI3*-W Presented by Sovaro®, February 1-4, which featured the prestigious $220,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Wellington, one of the final two East Coast qualifiers in the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. Ireland's Daniel Coyle claimed victory with U.S. Olympic veterans Laura Kraut and Margie Engle taking second and third places respectively.The Palm Beach Masters Series also featured the second annual Deeridge Derby on February 28-March 4, a USEF premier-rated show that showcased elegant hunters and young jumpers in Deeridge Farms' magnificent grass Grand Prix Ring. The hunter courses were designed by Steve Stephens, course designer at the 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong. Victoria Colvin, one of the nation's premier hunter riders with a multitude of victories under her belt, clinched both the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and the $5,000 SBS Farms International Hunter Derby Welcome Stake aboard Private Practice.The Deeridge Derby also featured the Classic Champions Inc. Tour classes specifically for 5, 6, and 7 year-old jumpers. The young horse classes offered $40,000 in prize money and were also held in the grass Grand Prix Ring with age-appropriate courses designed by Frédéric Cottier of France, an Olympic bronze medalist and course designer at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Normandy, France. The horse show also held a range of other jumper classes in the Deeridge Jumper Ring.All Palm Beach Masters Series events are hosted at the spectacular Deeridge Farms, situated in the heart of North American equestrian sport in Wellington, Florida. Award-winning landscaping surrounds the custom-built show grounds and the facilities that host the Palm Beach Masters Series. There is perhaps no location more intimate or stunning to host the highest levels of equestrian competition.Further information on the Palm Beach Masters Series is available on line at www.palmbeachmasters.com.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, 508-698-6810; marty@classic-communications.com

Wellington, Florida - March 21, 2018 - The Palm Beach Masters Series is delighted to welcome top sponsors to its new Palm Beach Open, the third event in its 2018 show series, which is a USEF rated Jumper 2 show that offers classes in a wide range of course heights from .95m to 1.40m, horse age-specific classes, and offers nearly $100,000 in prize money. The event will be held March 22-25 at the beautiful Deeridge Farms in Wellington, Florida, a premier world-class venue for horse, rider, sponsor, and spectator."We are overwhelmed by the support of our sponsors for our new Palm Beach Open," said Lou Jacobs, event co-founder along with siblings Charlie Jacobs and Katie Robinson. "We'd like to thank them from the bottom of our hearts for helping to make our show so successful."Engel & Völkers Wellington is located in the heart of South Florida's largest equestrian community and represents a distinct brand of exceptional real estate service and international reach. Owners Amy Carr & Carol Sollak, have over 20 years of experience working with clients who are buying, selling, or leasing properties in the area.The event also features Classic Champions Inc. Tour classes which are specifically for 5, 6, and 7 year-old horses and are based on European principles which modernize the show experience for young horses in North America. The classes will feature age-appropriate courses that will be designed by Ireland's Tom Holden, an FEI level 3 course designer who has designed courses at some of the world's top events. The classes take place Thursday, March 22, Friday, March 23, and Sunday, March 25, and offer nearly $20,000 prize money.Turkish Airlines is one of the most preferred leading European air carriers with global network coverage thanks to its strict compliance with flight safety, reliability, product line, service quality, and competitiveness while maintaining its identity as the flag carrier of Turkey. The $15,000 Turkish Airlines 1.40 meter jumper class, the thrilling culminating class of the event, which takes place Sunday, March 25 in the Horse Network Grass Grand Prix ring.Horse Network, title sponsor of the grass Grand Prix Ring, isa leading U.S. digital media company dedicated to equestrian sport, will be providing live stream video in collaboration with ShowNet from the Palm Beach Open. All competition can be seen on the Palm Beach Masters website, the Palm Beach Masters Facebook page, and on the Horse Network website. Horse Network's 2017/2018 Seasonspans $4 million in prize money, 5,000 world-class riders, 150 hours of live broadcast competition and 70 days of live streaming from over 20 premier events - including exclusive coverage of all 14 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League qualifiers.Rood & Riddle, sponsor of the Rider's Lounge and the Official Equine Hospital of the Palm Beach Masters Series, is a state-of-the-art full-service equine hospital, providing services in ambulatory, diagnostic imaging, emergency medicine and surgery, internal medicine, laboratory, podiatry, reproduction, sport horse medicine and surgery. Rood & Riddle own three different hospitals in Lexington, KY, Saratoga, NY, and Wellington, FL.EquiJet, sponsor of the FEI Grass Schooling Ring, is one of the leading equine transport companies. Offering a vast network of partner companies throughout the world to ensure safe shipping for equines across the globe, the EquiJet team prides themselves on offering clear logistical solutions to riders and owners anywhere in the world.Palm Beach County Sports Commission is a private, not-for-profit organization contracted by Palm Beach County to promote and market the County as a sports and sports tourism destination. The Commission brings sporting events and activities to the County, enhances economic impact, stimulates bed tax revenues (with a focus on the off-season), and maximizes utilization of County facilities. Saratoga Stalls offers premium horse stalls for custom, new build or existing barns. Their stalls are uniquely designed and customizable for any project, and their expert staff will help you with all of your needs and questions, from concept to completion.Knowing how important the supporting staff is for every rider and how hard they work,CMJ Sport Horse is providing food vouchers for the grooms! Food vouchers can be picked up at the Show Office from Susie Morrissey, Show Secretary of the Palm Beach Open.Ranked among the top 100 law firms in the United States, Akerman LLP is a client-driven enterprise, recognized by Financial Times as among the most forward thinking law firms in the industry.Vendor sponsor, Abba Vet Supply, focuses on caring for the health, well-being and success of your equine athlete. Because of this unique focus, built around over 30 years of experience in treating thoroughbred and standardbred horses by Dr. Kevin Brophy, D.V.M. and his colleagues, they have created an innovative approach to selecting and offering a range of performance horse treatments and supplement supplies.The World Equestrian Center will have a mobile boutique for onsite shopping. The World Equestrian Center is home to America's largest indoor/outdoor equestrian sports complex with premiere footing, new permanent stabling, and on site accommodation at its two locations in Wilmington, Ohio and Ocala, Florida.Competition in the Deeridge Jumper Ring that boasts all-weather footing begins at 8:00 a.m. each day, while action in the immaculate grass Horse Network Grand Prix Ring starts at 9:00 a.m. each day, except on Sunday, March 25 when it begins at 10:00 a.m. For more information visit: https://palmbeachmasters.com/event/palm-beach-open/.SCHEDULE - click here for complete class scheduleThursday, March 22Deeridge Jumper Ring - 8:00amVariety of classes 1.0m - 1.25mHorse Network Grand Prix Ring - 9:00 amClassic Champions 5 Year Old Jumper II$2,000 Classic Champions 6 Year Old Jumper II 2d$3,000 Classic Champions 7 Year Old Jumper II 2d$3,000 1.30m Jumper II 2b$3,500 1.35m Jumper II 2b$10,000 1.40m Jumper II 2bFriday, March 23Deeridge Jumper Ring - 8:00 amVariety of classes 1.0m - 1.25mHorse Network Grand Prix Ring - 9:00 am$1,000 Classic Champions 5 Year Old Jumper II 2d$2,000 Classic Champions 6 Year Old Jumper II 2.1$3,000 Classic Champions 7 Year Old Jumper II 2.1$3,000 1.30m Jumper II 2c$3,500 1.35m Jumper II 2c$10,000 1.40m Jumper II 2.1Saturday, March 24Deeridge Jumper Ring - 8:00 amVariety of classes .95m - 1.15mHorse Network Grand Prix Ring - 9:00 am$2,000 1.20m Jumper II 2b$5,000 1.25m Jumper II 2b$7,500 1.30m Jumper II 2b$10,000 1.35m Jumper II 2bSunday, March 25Deeridge Jumper Ring - 8:00amVariety of classes .95m - 1.10mHorse Network Grand Prix Ring - 8:00am$2,000 1.15m Jumper II 2b$1,000 Classic Champions 5 Year Old Jumper II 2a$2,000 Classic Champions 6 Year Old Jumper II 2a$4,000 Classic Champions 7 Year Old Jumper II 2a$15,000 Turkish Airlines 1.40m Jumper II 2aPalm Beach Open VIP ClubThe Palm Beach Open VIP Club at the Palm Beach Masters Series offers an exquisite venue for watching the classes in either competition area. Visitors experience world-class culinary delicacies with an ample variety of beverages with thoughtful, attentive service tailored to meet every need, ﻿while enjoying top level competition. Access to the VIP Club includes a 6-person table located ringside for watching events while enjoying the finest complimentary food and beverages. Club members are invited to VIP events and receive tickets to all competitions along with preferred parking. For more information and to reserve a table visit:https://palmbeachmasters.com/vip-club/.Stay In TouchFor all of the latest news, alerts, and updates about the Palm Beach Masters Series, click here to join our mailing list!About the Palm Beach Masters Series and Deeridge FarmsThe 2018 Palm Beach Masters Series kicked off with the third annual CP Palm Beach Masters CSI3*-W Presented by Sovaro®, February 1-4, which featured the prestigious $220,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Wellington, one of the final two East Coast qualifiers in the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. Ireland's Daniel Coyle claimed victory with U.S. Olympic veterans Laura Kraut and Margie Engle taking second and third places respectively.The Palm Beach Masters Series also featured the second annual Deeridge Derby on February 28-March 4, a USEF premier-rated show that showcased elegant hunters and young jumpers in Deeridge Farms' magnificent grass Grand Prix Ring. The hunter courses were designed by Steve Stephens, course designer at the 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong. Victoria Colvin, one of the nation's premier hunter riders with a multitude of victories under her belt, clinched both the $50,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and the $5,000 SBS Farms International Hunter Derby Welcome Stake aboard Private Practice.The Deeridge Derby also featured the Classic Champions Inc. Tour classes specifically for 5, 6, and 7 year-old jumpers. The young horse classes offered $40,000 in prize money and were also held in the grass Grand Prix Ring with age-appropriate courses designed by Frédéric Cottier of France, an Olympic bronze medalist and course designer at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games™ in Normandy, France. The horse show also held a range of other jumper classes in the Deeridge Jumper Ring.All Palm Beach Masters Series events are hosted at the spectacular Deeridge Farms, situated in the heart of North American equestrian sport in Wellington, Florida. Award-winning landscaping surrounds the custom-built show grounds and the facilities that host the Palm Beach Masters Series. There is perhaps no location more intimate or stunning to host the highest levels of equestrian competition.Further information on the Palm Beach Masters Series is available on line atwww.palmbeachmasters.com.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, 508-698-6810; marty@classic-communications.com

Did you know the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is a nonprofit organization? We are dedicated to helping educate the youth of Texas. We need your help to make our campaign a success, and we’ve included a few easy ways that you can support us.

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Give MoneyTo date, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo's educational commitment exceeds $186 million with $11.5 million committed in 2017 in the form of scholarships, grants, endowments, auctions, a calf scramble program and show premiums paid to youth.Give Time

﻿The Show Jumping Hall of Fame, organized to promote the sport of show jumping and to immortalize the legends of the men, women and horses who have made great contributions to the sport, was established in 1987 and formally opened in 1989.

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Ocala, FL - March 18, 2018 - Kristen Vanderveen decisively won the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Qualifier Grand Prix, presented by Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club Sunday at Live Oak International, guarenteeing herself a trip to Paris for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Final, April 11-15. The pressure was on, but Vanderveen and Bull Run's Faustino de Tili rose to the challenge, securing the first of only three clear rounds before producing the quickest trip of the jump-off to take top honors."It's very surreal for me right now. I've always wanted to go to World Cup Finals," she beamed. "This is a bit of a last minute decision for me to come here and see if we could do something special today and get it. I'm over the moon excited about it. Winning the Grand Prix alone is a big deal to me, but going to Paris makes me really excited."Two others joined her in the jump-off, Brianne Goutal-Marteau and former FEI World Cup™ Beat Mändli, who finished in second and third place, respectively.Goutal-Marteau managed a clear jump-off in 52.99 seconds which gave her a second place finish aboard Rose Hill Farm's Viva Colombia. "I'm really grateful to have her because I think she's really special and a great match for me," she commented. "I think every horse benefits from coming to a show like this. The ground is amazing. The facility is amazing, and the horses are the focal point of the weekend."Swiss Olympic veteran Mändli had two poles down in the jump-off to close the weekend out in third place with Grant Road Partners' Galan S. He was also the recipient of the $10,000 Gallagher/Meller Sport Horses Leading Rider Award which recognizes the rider who accumulates the highest number of points over the three days of show jumping competition."[Galan S] tries his best every time he goes into the ring. He really stepped up the last few weeks, so I thought we would try here at Live Oak and it worked out really well," Mändli remarked.Goutal-Marteau's sister, Clementine Goutal, was also in the class with Remarkable Farms' Darlon van Groenhove. She finished ninth and also won both the $1,000 Jerry Parks Insurance Group Leading Amateur Rider Award and M. Michael Meller Style of Riding Award as the rider that exhibits the best combination of horsemanship, skill and presentation while competing. Of Sunday's 24 starters, only the top three managed a clear round across Kelvin Bywater's challenging track. "I have to say my heart was going quite fast midway through wondering if we were going to get a clear round," said Bywater. "At the end of the day I want to see good sport, and good sport is about good jumping in the first round as well as a fast jump-off."Live Oak International is the only show in the United States that offers both combined driving and show jumping, attracting some of the country's most talented riders and drivers. Live Oak International also hosted five USEF Combined Driving National Championships including Four-in-Hand, Intermediate Pair Horse, Intermediate Single Horse, Intermediate Pair Pony, and Intermediate Single Pony divisions.On another spectacular year of competition at Live Oak International, Co-President Chester Weber remarked, "Our family is all about horses and horsemanship. It seems like every horse gets off the truck at live Oak and takes a big deep sigh and puts their head down to have some grass. This place is a little slice of heaven for horses and it's my family's pleasure to share that with these great international athletes." For results, visit www.liveoakinternational.com/show-resultsAbout Live Oak InternationalStarted in 1992 by Chester Weber when he was only 18-years-old, the Live Oak International has grown each year. Now run by Co-Presidents Chester Weber and his sister, Juliet W. Reid, the show is a world-class equestrian event and is the only show in the United States that offers both Combined Driving and Show Jumping. This year's show was home to five USEF National Driving Championships and is the final leg of the 2018 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. Live Oak Plantation is also home to Chester Weber's training program.For information about the event, email info@liveoakinternational.com or visit www.liveoakinternational.com.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, marty@liveoakinternational.com​

Ocala, FL - March 18, 2018 - Chester Weber, Ocala, FL, won a record 15th USEF Four-in-Hand National Championship title Sunday at Live Oak International. Leading from start to finish, Weber and his team earned an impressive 40.11 in dressage, blazed brilliantly around the marathon with just 123.58 points added, and had only one ball in the third phase to win. Weber also earned the Jean Keathley Perpetual Memorial Trophy for the best FEI dressage score.​"I have hopes that they'll be my [FEI World Equestrian Games] team," Weber said of four horse team of Splash, First Edition, Boris W and Asjemenou. "Live Oak is always a little confusing for the horses because they have the World Cup Qualifier show jumping with flowers and everything built in the arena, which isn't typical in our sport. But they handled that. I was really pleased with how they worked today. I think this is a team that can consistently go clear and hopefully will be good enough to get us on the medal podium in Tryon in September."Lisa Stroud, Kennett Square, PA, held onto the reserve champion position after a competitive cones course. She and her team had three balls down and picked up 0.34 time penalties for a total of 190.21 points. James Fairclough, Newton, NJ, also remained in his marathon position. One obstacles fault and 2.09 time penalties gave him a third place result with a score 194.43.This is the first year that U.S. Equestrian offered Intermediate Combined Driving National Championships, and the competition was fierce as the marathon leaders looked to grab the inaugural titles.Single Pony overnight leader Jennifer Keeler, Paris, KY, piloted her own Zeppo to victory, adding nothing through the Obstacles phase for a final result of 144.7."It's the most incredible fairy tail possible," Keeler smiled. "I think it's safe to say if you had asked anyone, they would have expected it to be with our other pony. Amazing Grace is certainly our star pony, and she's done some great things, and the whole time Zeppo just waited for his chance. This was his chance and it's just incredible that he was able to do what no one thought he could do."Janelle Marshall, Williston, SC, who had the fastest time through the cones, finished as reserve champion with John Merritt's Kennebec Joyce on a final score of 145.89. Third place went to the dressage leader Kristin Whittington, Edinburg, IN, and Symphony, who added 3.63 time penalties in Obstacles to end on 154.15 points.After taking over the lead of the Intermediate Pair Pony Championship on Marathon day, Katie Whaley, Paris, KY, solidified her win with a faultless trip around the cones course. She finished the weekend on a final score of 140.29."I'm so thrilled that the USEF has decided to acknowledge these levels on a national stage," the international veteran said of her first Intermediate level championship. "It's going to enhance the driving in this country. Everyone works hard on every level, and to be recognized in the Intermediate is exceptional. This really shows good things to come for the sport of driving."Boots Wright, Ocala, FL, had one ball down, but finished within the time to earn the reserve champion title. She and her pair of Marko and Mista Q closed out the competition with 146.37 points.Jennifer Thompson, Lodi, WI, carefully maneuvered her own Funnominial C.G. to take home the Intermediate Single Horse Championship title. Her 0.21 time penalties brought her to a three-day result of 140.94."I'm still on Cloud Nine. I came to Live Oak in previous years to watch. Last year I volunteered. This year, we came for the experience, and to learn what Live Oak is about. I never anticipated being in this position," she said. "We trained all winter in Wisconsin. I was driving when it was 13 degrees out. It feels good that all that effort and my frozen fingers paid off."Taylor Bradish, Windsor, SC, and Katrin Becker's Katydid Duchess had one ball down, but maintained their second placed standing. They finish on 153.24 points. With one ball down in the Obstacles course, Anna Koopman, Middleburg, VA, and Night Chief Lms jumped from sixth after Marathon to finish in third on a final score of 153.69.Scott Adcox, Sarasota, FL, piloted Nupafeed Auto Pilot and Pepe to the Intermediate Pair Horse title. Looking to gain experience for his pair, Adcox had three cones faults and 10.44 time faults for a weekend score of 185.39."It's great that we're going to start to recognize the lower levels and what they accomplish. Thinking we can build the sport from the top down is a little silly, so we need to try and encourage the lower levels to move up and encourage more people into our sport, so we have a sport in the future," Adcox said. In addition to the Jean Keathley Perpetual Memorial Trophy won by Chester Weber, the Anne Bliss Perpetual Memorial Trophy was earned by Four-in-Hand driver Misdee Wrigley-Miller as the most elegant lady rider. The Ed Young Memorial Trophy was presented to Anne Marie Turbe as the Most Valuable Official. Live Oak International is the only show in the United States that offers both combined driving and show jumping, attracting some of the country's most talented riders and drivers. It was also the last opportunity for show jumping riders to qualify for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Final , April 11-15, in Paris, France. For results, visit www.liveoakinternational.com/show-resultsAbout Live Oak InternationalStarted in 1992 by Chester Weber when he was only 18-years-old, the Live Oak International has grown each year. Now run by Co-Presidents Chester Weber and his sister, Juliet W. Reid, the show is a world-class equestrian event and is the only show in the United States that offers both Combined Driving and Show Jumping. The show is home to seven USEF National Driving Championships and is the final leg of the 2018 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. Live Oak Plantation is also home to Chester Weber's training program.For information about the event, email info@liveoakinternational.com or visit www.liveoakinternational.com. ​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, marty@liveoakinternational.com

Ocala, FL - March 16, 2018 - Devin Ryan had no one to beat but himself when he entered the arena on his second ride of Friday's $35,000 CSI3* Longines World Ranking Class at Live Oak International, but he still managed to deliver an improved performance, stealing the top spot with his own Cooper on a time of 65.76.Cooper beat his stablemate by less than a second, but Ll Show Jumpers' Eddie Blue's time of 66.53 was still good enough for second place. Beating performance by less than a second, Ryan's first ride Eddie Blue had a time of 66.53 seconds, which was still good enough for second place."It's deceiving. He's such a naturally quick horse. I'm not surprised that he did it, but I wouldn't be surprised if I matched the time or was slightly under," Ryan admitted of Cooper. "Eddie is really a massive-strided horse. Cooper has a big stride, but he's a better adder and he's quick with his legs.""For Eddie, I based [my plan] on [the Longines FEI World Cup™ Final]. They start out with speed as the first leg and then move on to jump-off rounds. I didn't want to go crazy here, but I want quick enough to prep for World Cup Finals," he continued.Lauren Tisbo piloted the speedy Coriandolo di Ribano, owned by Tequestrian Farms, to a third place finish with a clear round in 67.41 seconds."He tends to be a little bit of an exuberant jumper, so it benefits him to carry a more prompt pace the first day. That's a better preparation for him than some other horses. That was his relaxed round," she commented.Catherine Tyree sped to fourth place aboard Mary Tyree's Bokai, managing a time of 68.29 with no poles down."Bokai is very good at working up to pace. That's when he relaxes the most," she explained. "I really just wanted to go in and have a nice relaxed round. I didn't want to make him feel pressured in any way, and he jumped great."Ryan, Tisbo and Tyree are all in the running for the upcoming Longines FEI World Cup™ Final, April 11-15, in Paris, France. Sunday's $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Qualifier Grand Prix will make the final determination as it is the last qualifying opportunity.The $10,000 Waldron Private Wealth 1.40m Power and Speed class got things started for the show jumpers Friday afternoon. Fourth to go was Kady Abrahamson aboard Abrahamson Equestrian's Charline whose time of 37.54 remained untouched by the rest of the 18-entry class to give her the win.Lauren Tisbo piloted Tequestrian Farm's Jeleena de Muze to a second place finish. They posted a clear round with a time of 38.30 seconds. El Salvador's Paulo Sergio Mateo Santana Filho took home third place with Santana Stables' Una du Keske Z after a fault-free round with a time of 41.15.This year's riders are competing across brand new sand-fiber footing, a new addition to Live Oak International installed this year after the traditional grass arena was damaged by Hurricane Irma last fall. "I thought the footing was great," Ryan commented. "Walking the course, people were wondering, 'is it too soft?' but the horses got off the ground great at every jump. I don't think you'll hear a complaint about it after the class." Ahead of Live Oak International's 2019 competition, grass will be seeded on top of the sand-fiber mixture ensuring riders and drivers will always compete on world-class ground.Live Oak International is also hosting five USEF Combined Driving National Championships including Four-in-Hand, Intermediate Pair Horse, Intermediate Single Horse, Intermediate Pair Pony, and Intermediate Single Pony divisions. Drivers will take on the exciting marathon phase Saturday starting at 8:00 a.m., before the nail-biting Obstacles finale on Sunday.Show jumping continues Saturday with the $35,000 CSI3* Longines World Ranking Competition at 1:30 p.m. before culminating on Sunday with the $100,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Qualifier Grand Prix.Live Oak International is the only show in the United States that offers both combined driving and show jumping, attracting some of the country's most talented riders and drivers. General admission tickets are available online and at the gate for $10. Children under 12 receive free admission. Parking for the competition is also free. For those who cannot attend this year's event, all competition can be seen live at www.liveoakinternational.com/watch-live/.For results, visit www.liveoakinternational.com/show-resultsAbout Live Oak InternationalStarted in 1992 by Chester Weber when he was only 18-years-old, the Live Oak International has grown each year. Now run by Co-Presidents Chester Weber and his sister, Juliet W. Reid, the show is a world-class equestrian event and is the only show in the United States that offers both Combined Driving and Show Jumping. The show is home to seven USEF National Driving Championships and is the final leg of the 2018 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. Live Oak Plantation is also home to Chester Weber's training program.For information about the event, email info@liveoakinternational.com or visit www.liveoakinternational.com.​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Marty Bauman, marty@liveoakinternational.com